THE OBLIGATIONS OF DEVELOPING AND DEVELOPED STATES IN RESPECT TO ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES WITHIN UNCLOS

This article discusses one of the major concerns of the ISA which is to provide the marine environment is protected from harmful effects that may occur during mining activities in the Area. In 2011, the ITLOS Seabed Disputes Chambers, at the request of the Council of the ISA, ensured its first advisory opinion regarding the responsibilities and obligations of States and their sponsored entities with regard to activities in the Area. It will be explored some of the implications of the Advisory Opinion of the Chambers on developing States herein. Key words: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, seabed area, developing states, marine environment, advisory opinion, sponsorship.